Cape Cod Maritime Museum
Discover Cape Cod's seafaring soul at this museum, featuring a working boat shop, historic vessels, and engaging maritime history exhibits.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Cape Cod Maritime Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Cape Cod's seafaring soul at this museum, featuring a working boat shop, historic vessels, and engaging maritime history exhibits.
"A comprehensive history of Cape Cod that I could find and is a great stop for invested historians."
Build a Toy Boat! :hammer_and_wrench:
Participate in the woodworking studio to build your own toy boat – a unique souvenir and fun activity for all ages.
Explore the Barn Out Back :ship:
Don't miss the historic boats on display in the barn; one recently won 'best in show' at a major boat show!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Wooden Boat Shop
Lower Level
Witness skilled artisans at work and even build your own toy boat in this operational woodworking studio.
Historic Boat Collection
Barn out back
Explore a fascinating collection of restored historic boats, including award-winning vessels.
Interactive Exhibits
Main Galleries
Dive into Cape Cod's rich maritime history through engaging displays on lighthouses, canals, and women of the sea.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for a Smoother Visit
Engage with the Craftsmanship
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Build a Toy Boat! :hammer_and_wrench:
Participate in the woodworking studio to build your own toy boat – a unique souvenir and fun activity for all ages.
Explore the Barn Out Back :ship:
Don't miss the historic boats on display in the barn; one recently won 'best in show' at a major boat show!
Check for Special Events :calendar:
The museum hosts events like networking nights and boat parades, offering a lively atmosphere.
Kid-Friendly Play Boat :child:
Younger visitors will love the interactive play boat, making it a great stop for families.
Tips
from all over the internet
Build a Toy Boat! :hammer_and_wrench:
Participate in the woodworking studio to build your own toy boat – a unique souvenir and fun activity for all ages.
Explore the Barn Out Back :ship:
Don't miss the historic boats on display in the barn; one recently won 'best in show' at a major boat show!
Check for Special Events :calendar:
The museum hosts events like networking nights and boat parades, offering a lively atmosphere.
Kid-Friendly Play Boat :child:
Younger visitors will love the interactive play boat, making it a great stop for families.
Rowing Sessions Available :rowboat:
Consider signing up for a rowing session for a hands-on maritime experience on the water.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Cape Cod Maritime Museum for its engaging exhibits, particularly the operational wooden boat shop and the collection of historic boats. The hands-on activities for children and the comprehensive historical information are frequently highlighted as positives. However, some find the amount of reading overwhelming, and a few mention inconsistent lighting and lack of seating in certain areas.
"Very nice little museum with an operational wooden boat shop you can wander around. Don't miss the barn out back with several historic boats on display.
Their latest restored wooden boat on display out back just won best in show at the Mystic wooden boat show. Very nice restoration work."
Matthew Thomas
"Nice museum. My kids loved the play boat. Plenty of parking in front."
Elizabeth Han
"True to its name, Cape Cod Maritime Museum was by far the most comprehensive history of Cape Cod that I could find and is a great stop for invested historians, although people with a more casual interest in history will be overwhelmed by the amount of reading.
This museum is open all year, Tuesday through Saturday, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Tickets are $10 for adults; $8 for seniors, students, and veterans; $5 for children ages 3 to 5 plus groups of ten or more who book ahead of time; and $0 for children under 3, active duty military, first responders, and NEMA members (like me!).
The museum website mentions the space being ADA compliant, possibly because it has an entrance ramp and an elevator. However, lighting was inconsistent, galleries had little to no seating, and several loud videos played on repeat with no option for the visitor to pause them or turn down the volume. Additionally, the website contains many contrast errors from white text on a light background, along with no alt text for images and icons, a header menu that was difficult to navigate, and no search button."
Abigail Epplett
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Cape Cod Maritime Museum is located in Hyannis, making it easily accessible. There is plenty of parking available directly in front of the museum.
Yes, the museum website states it is ADA compliant, featuring an entrance ramp and an elevator for accessibility.
There is ample parking available directly in front of the museum, which is convenient for visitors.
With an entrance ramp and an elevator, the museum aims to be accessible for wheelchair users.
Yes, its waterfront location in Hyannis makes it a straightforward destination to find.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Adult tickets are $10. Seniors, students, and veterans pay $8. Children aged 3-5 are $5, and groups of 10+ booking ahead also pay $5. Children under 3, active military, first responders, and NEMA members get in free.
The museum is open year-round, Tuesday through Saturday, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
While not always required, booking ahead is recommended for groups of ten or more to secure the special rate.
Discounts are available for seniors, students, veterans, and children. Active duty military, first responders, and NEMA members receive free admission.
The museum is closed on Sundays and Mondays, operating Tuesday through Saturday.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore exhibits on maritime history, visit the operational wooden boat shop, see historic boats in the barn, and even participate in woodworking sessions or rowing activities.
Yes, kids often enjoy the interactive play boat and the opportunity to build their own toy boats in the woodworking studio.
Absolutely! The woodworking studio and the rowing sessions offer hands-on experiences, and there's a play boat for younger visitors.
Exhibits cover the comprehensive history of Cape Cod's maritime past, including lighthouses, the Cape Cod Canal, and the roles of women in maritime history.
While not explicitly stated, photography is generally permitted in museums for personal use. Be mindful of any specific signage or restrictions.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The museum itself does not appear to have a cafe or restaurant. However, Hyannis offers numerous dining options nearby.
It's generally best to consume outside food and drinks in designated areas or before/after your visit to maintain the museum's exhibits. Check with the museum for specific policies.
Hyannis has a wide array of restaurants, from casual seafood shacks to more upscale dining. Exploring the Main Street area will provide many choices.
While not specified, the waterfront location might offer scenic spots nearby for a picnic. It's advisable to check local park facilities.
The museum can host events and has had sponsors provide refreshments, suggesting catering options are available for private functions.
📸 📸 Photography
The restored historic boats in the barn, the operational boat shop, and the general maritime exhibits offer great photographic opportunities. The waterfront location also provides scenic views.
For professional photography or event shoots, it's best to contact the museum in advance to inquire about their policies and any associated fees.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, always be respectful of other visitors and any specific exhibit restrictions.
You can capture images of historic wooden boats, the craftsmanship in the boat shop, maritime artifacts, and the overall atmosphere of Cape Cod's seafaring heritage.
Lighting can be inconsistent in some galleries, so be prepared with your camera settings. The natural light from the waterfront might be beneficial.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the museum offers a wealth of historical information, which might be extensive for very young children, the interactive elements ensure engagement. The accessible layout, including ramps and an elevator, makes navigating with strollers easier. Consider focusing on the boat shop and play areas for the youngest visitors.
⚓ History Buffs & Maritime Enthusiasts
The detailed information provided with each display, including maps and diagrams, caters to a deep dive into the subject. The operational wooden boat shop offers a unique glimpse into traditional boat-building techniques, a rare sight in modern times.
🤝 Community & Networking Groups
They have experience working with sponsors to provide refreshments, making it a convenient option for event organizers. The opportunity to explore the museum's exhibits adds an extra layer of interest for attendees, making it more than just a typical event space.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Wooden Boat Building
One of the most engaging aspects for visitors, especially families, is the chance to participate. The museum offers woodworking sessions where you can build your own toy boat. This hands-on activity provides a tangible connection to the maritime heritage and a unique souvenir to take home. It’s a testament to the museum’s commitment to education and community involvement.
The dedication to preserving these skills is evident in the quality of their work. The museum proudly showcases its restored boats, including those that have won prestigious awards at wooden boat shows, highlighting the exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail.
Exploring Cape Cod's Maritime Heritage
Beyond the main galleries, the museum extends its historical narrative to its outdoor collection. The barn out back houses several historic boats, each with its own story and significance to the region's seafaring past. These vessels are meticulously restored, showcasing the evolution of boat design and construction over the years.
For those with a keen interest in history, the museum provides extensive information, including pictures, maps, and diagrams, all accompanied by informative text. While the depth of information is appreciated by enthusiasts, casual visitors might find the amount of reading substantial.
Community and Engagement
A particularly unique offering is the guest rower program. This initiative allows visitors to experience being part of a rowing crew, guided by experienced coxswains. It’s an immersive way to connect with the maritime environment and understand the teamwork involved in traditional seafaring. The ease of signing up and payment through their website makes participation straightforward.
The museum also plays a role in education and outreach, with programs designed to teach children about boat building and maritime skills. This focus on hands-on learning and community involvement makes the Cape Cod Maritime Museum a valuable and dynamic institution for the region.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit